An audible gasp from family and friends was heard in the courtroom when the bail was announced. Despite the defendant”s objections, Judge Martin refused to reduce bail and said, “Due to your prior convictions, bail in this case is justified.” Martin indicated that Mota posed a threat to the community.

Mota, 25, of Clearlake Park, was arrested Saturday, Dec. 30, in connection with the armed robbery of Bank of the West in Clearlake. According to detective Richard Towle of the Clearlake Police Department, an investigation is still pending.

The robbery took place on Dec. 8 shortly after the bank opened. According to a statement issued by CPD, an undisclosed amount of cash was stolen during the robbery, and the suspect fled in a beige-and-brown-SUV-type vehicle that was later recovered and discovered to be reported stolen.

Mota faces two criminal counts, including one felony charge of robbery in the second degree and one misdemeanor charge of obstructing a peace officer. The CPD asks that if anyone has information concerning the bank robbery to please contact Detective Towle at 994-8251.